Forty Days and Forty Nights (film)

Forty Days and Forty Nights is a 2002 American romantic comedy film directed by Michael Lehmann, written by Rob Perez, and starring Josh Hartnett, Shannyn Sossamon, and Paulo Costanzo. The plot revolves around Matt Sullivan (Hartnett), a young man recovering from a painful breakup, who decides to abstain from all sexual activity, including kissing and masturbation, for the duration of Lent – a period of forty days and forty nights.

The film explores the challenges Matt faces as he attempts to maintain his vow amidst temptations, public ridicule, and mounting sexual frustration. His commitment becomes a source of both amusement and fascination to his friends and coworkers, leading to various humorous situations. Furthermore, he meets and develops feelings for Erica Sutton (Sossamon), complicating his self-imposed abstinence.

The film's title is a direct reference to the biblical period of Lent, observed by many Christians, which traditionally involves a period of fasting, repentance, and self-denial. While the film uses the Lenten period as a framework for its narrative, it primarily functions as a lighthearted exploration of relationships, temptation, and the complexities of modern romance. Forty Days and Forty Nights was released on March 1, 2002, and received mixed reviews from critics, but was a box office success.